Pack smarter, not more
Road trips are all about having fun and exploring new places, but packing unnecessary clothes can bog you down before you ever get into your car. Simplifying your fashion and accessory selections will make your trip that much more enjoyable. That’s where a road trip capsule wardrobe comes in.
With pants, shirts, jackets and other items that are versatile and stylish, a road trip capsule wardrobe makes it possible to look great on your getaway without bringing numerous bags stuffed with clothes you won’t wear. You’ll look fashionable while freeing up space in your ride with our picks for putting together a curated wardrobe for your next trip.
Shop this article: BIG DART Oversized Button-Down Shirt, adidas Women’s Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoes and Urban CoCo Women’s Casual Ruched Stretchy High-Waist A-Line Skirt
Tips for packing a road trip capsule
It can be overwhelming to pick just the right clothes and accessories to fit your luggage, trip destination and itinerary. Additionally, you’ll want to streamline the items you pack so they don’t take up too much space in your vehicle and you aren’t lugging numerous bulky bags from car to hotel and back again. Versatile pieces that you can mix and match are what you need for a highly portable road trip capsule.
- Start with one or two simple bags. A good rule of thumb to follow when packing a trip-friendly capsule is to choose a bag that’s about the size of a carry-on and only pack what will fit. Use a smaller bag ,such as a simple tote, for accessories, cosmetics and other extras.
- Think about your trip activities. Whether you’ll be spending time at the beach, visiting friends or exploring local attractions, you’ll need the right outfits when you arrive at your destination. Think casual outfits and comfortable shoes, and skip the items you probably won’t wear.
- Check the weather forecast. What will the weather bring for your trip? For example, you’ll need cool pieces, such as shorts and tank tops, for hot weather, and a basic jacket for chilly days. And don’t forget the sunglasses if your travels will take you to sunny shores.
- Opt for versatility. When taking a road trip with limited space in a bag and car, it’s a good idea to bring along wardrobe items that you can mix or match. A blouse that will go nicely with jeans or a skirt and be worn by itself or layered can be used to create several stylish outfits. Casual trousers can be paired with a frilly shirt or traditional T-shirt for looks that fit different occasions.
- Bring a few accessories. Essentials, such as sunglasses or a hat, don’t even have to be packed, as you can wear them as you venture on your excursion. Grab a new stylish bag to pack your must-have items.
Best fashions to add to your road trip capsule
Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt
When it comes to travel comfort, you need to pack a classic tee. This one is made of a soft cotton blend and has a flattering V-shaped neckline. It’s available in numerous color options and in singles or multipacks of two or four.
Tronjori Women’s High-Waist Casual Wide-Leg Palazzo Trousers
Not only do these pants have a flowing fit that’s extremely comfortable, they also have the wide-leg look that’s on-trend for 2024. They look great paired with a blouse or sweater and strappy sandals or high heels for a special evening out with friends.
OUGES Women’s Open-Front Cardigan Shirt
If chilly weather is in the forecast for your trip, don’t forget to take along a long-sleeve shirt for layering. This lightweight cardigan offers a laid-back, loose-fitting style that looks great with casual outfits. You can choose from several pretty colors and patterns to fit your favorite looks.
BIG DART Oversized Button-Down Shirt
Available in more than 20 fun colors, this flowing button-down shirt can be worn by itself or paired with a tee, tank or crop top. You’ll be trendy when you wear it with shorts, jeans or your favorite flirty skirt.
Vintage Crafts Genuine Leather Tote Bag
Made of real leather, this stylish tote features an edgy vintage look with durable stitching and a secure closure. It’s roomy too, and even has a laptop compartment that will protect your device as you travel.
Caracilia Women’s 2-Piece Outfits Matching Lounge Set
This casual two-piece set has a relaxed fit and is made of rayon that’s soft and breathable. Designed for comfort and available in 12 neutral colors, it’s perfect to pair with sneakers or sandals for laid-back days on vacation.
adidas Women’s Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoes
If you’ll be walking a lot on your trip, you’ll need a pair of comfortable shoes. These classic adidas tennis shoes are lightweight with the brand’s Couldfoam sockliners so you’ll feel like you are walking on a cloud during your adventures.
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Women’s Modern Bootcut Jeans
No road trip capsule wardrobe is complete without a pair of versatile jeans. Grab a pair of these bootcut Levis so you can wear them with different shirt styles for many looks with minimal effort. They are made of a cotton blend with a stretchy fit for exceptional comfort.
Cushionaire Women’s Lane Cork Footbed Sandals
It’s the contoured footbeds of these sandals that conform to your feet and provide unmatched comfort. And because you can wear them with pants, jeans or skirts, they may be the only pair you’ll need to pack on your next road trip.
KBETHOS Original Classic Trucker Cap
A trucker cap goes perfectly with everyday fashions. This offers a classic design and is made of cotton that’s lightweight and breathable. It’s adjustable for a precise fit.
Urban CoCo Women’s Casual Ruched Stretchy High-Waist A-Line Skirt
A skirt is a must-have for a road trip, because you can wear it with tank tops, blouses and other types of shirts for special evenings. With a maxi design and a wide, stretchy waistband, this one earns high marks for its figure-flattering fit.
These sunglasses may be affordable, but they are also protective and fashionable. The have round frames with a cat-eye look and provide 99.99% protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Amazon Essentials Women’s Slim-Fit Tank, Pack of 2
Classic tanks go with just about any type of bottoms, so it’s a good idea to toss a couple in your capsule. This pair comes in numerous colors to match your favorite shorts, skirts and trousers.
Omoone Women’s Oversized Mid-Long Denim Jacket
This relaxed-fitting denim jacket provides comfortable warmth and a timeless design. It’s made of 100% cotton and is available in 11 stylish colors. Its classic looks will go nicely with the other items in your travel wardrobe.
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